Chattukulathis

Chattukulathis refers to a community found primarily in the Kerala state of India, particularly in the districts of Thrissur and Palakkad. They are a sub-sect within the broader Nair community, distinguished by certain social customs and historical traditions. While they share many cultural aspects with other Nair groups, specific practices related to marriage, inheritance, and religious observances have historically set them apart.

The origins of the Chattukulathis are often linked to particular ancestral properties or family lineages within the Nair social structure. Their traditional social standing was significant, and they played a role in the local administration and social fabric of their regions. Like other Nair communities, they historically followed a matrilineal system of inheritance, known as Marumakkathayam, though this has largely been superseded by modern legal frameworks.

Religious practices among Chattukulathis typically align with mainstream Hindu traditions prevalent in Kerala, often with a strong emphasis on local deities and temples. Their community identity is maintained through familial ties, social gatherings, and the preservation of their unique customs. Over time, modernization and social reforms have led to a blending of practices, but the distinct identity of the Chattukulathis remains a part of Kerala's diverse social tapestry.